Survey Finds Many Unprepared for Anaphylaxis

According to a new 2012 Leger Marketing survey commissioned by Sanofi Canada, an alarming number of Canadians at risk of anaphylaxis do NOT always carry or have immediate access to an epinephrine auto-injector. And many are uncertain about how to correctly use the device.

Low level of compliance

The national survey of adults and parents of children at risk of anaphylaxis found that 57% overall do NOT always carry an epinephrine auto-injector as recommended by physicians.

By group, a surprising 63% of adult patients and 51% of parents with children at risk do NOT have an auto-injector immediately available at all times.

Research shows that most deaths associated with anaphylaxis have resulted from not having epinephrine readily available or delaying its use. 1

“At risk individuals should have an epinephrine auto-injector immediately available at all times,” explains Dr. Susan Waserman, a Canadian allergist and researcher. “But this survey tells us there are serious gaps. These individuals need to be better prepared.”

Although the precise number of people at risk of anaphylaxis is unknown, a recent publication found that approximately 7% (or about 2.5 million Canadians) self-report a food allergy. 2